firebreak

[ fahyuhr-breyk ]

noun

1. a strip of plowed or cleared land made to check the spread of a prairie or forest fire.

firebreak

/ ˈfaɪəˌbreɪk /

noun

1. Alsofireguardfire line a strip of open land in a forest or on a prairie, to arrest the advance of a fire
2. a measure taken to arrest the advance of anything dangerous or harmful

Word History and Origins

Origin of firebreak¹

First recorded in 1890–95; fire + break

Example Sentences

If this is the case, every person who is vaccinated will contribute to a firebreak that will stop future surges of infection before they happen.

From Time

To slow fire near communities, Fillmore’s team has also cleared firebreaks around several backcountry towns, including Alpine, Julian and Pine Valley.

From Voice of San Diego

If there were poles, it might be the clearing for a telegraph line to a signal station; if it was broader, a firebreak.

From Project Gutenberg

She crossed the firebreak and rode up over the ridge calling her cheery "Hoo-hoo-hoo!"

From Project Gutenberg